Brooklyn’s public schools are part of the New York City Department of Education, and the borough covers about a dozen community school districts. Most young children attend a zoned elementary school based on their home address, which makes the address one of the most important factors when choosing where to live with a family.
Middle and high schools work differently: families usually apply through the city’s online admissions system, listing programmes by preference, and offers depend on the school’s admissions method, which can include a lottery, a screening process or priority for local students. Free pre-K and 3-K programmes are available for young children in many areas.
Brooklyn is also home to some of the city’s specialised high schools, including Brooklyn Technical High School and Brooklyn Latin School, which admit students through an entrance exam. Deadlines and rules change from year to year, so check the official NYC Public Schools website and visit schools in person if possible.
Children with disabilities have the right to an evaluation and, where needed, an Individualised Education Programme (IEP). Parents who are not fluent in English have the right to interpretation and translated documents; ask the school or the district’s family welcome centre.